The Rox definitely rocks

Organisers believe this year's event lured 35,000 music lovers '“ a far cry from its first event two decades ago which had an audience of just 150 people.

Rox founder, Steve Goodheart said: "The whole weekend was fantastic. The audience was brilliant and the acts were astounding.

"The great thing about Rox is that it gets better every year and we are constantly finding ways to improve."

The festival, which stretched from the garden of the Royal Norfolk Hotel and along the seafront, featured a variety of family entertainment, including a small fairground.

The popular Fringe area was packed with people musing at a butterfly of beer cans, appreciating graffiti art, and rocking out at the Rox U stage.

Julie Peterson, 48, of Aldwick Road, said: "I am surprised by how much I have enjoyed it. I am not a big music lover so it is nice that there are other things to look at."

As music from the main stage blared, peace and tranquillity oozed from Classic Rox.

Bringing a classical twist to the two-day festival, amateur and professional performers delighted audiences.

Molly Harvard, 78, of Wentworth Close, said: "I came just to listen to the classical music.

"I enjoy listening to it on the radio so asked my son to bring me down.

"The musicians are so talented, especially the younger players. They have a lot of courage to play in front of so many people."

On Saturday night the main stage came alive with The Brown Boys of Bognor, who showered the crowd with glow-sticks, kazoos and balloons.

However, during their rendition of Batman, the excitement got too much for one reveller, who after launching himself over the safety barrier was quickly escorted to the exit by security guards.

Closing the main stage on Saturday was The Squire Circle.

Fresh from touring with Bruce Foxton and Rick Buckler of The Jam, Aldwick-based David Michael Moore teamed up with Maximum High multi-instrumentalist and co-writer Matt Douglas to entertain the crowd.

Sunday's music did not fail to disappoint with afternoon bands like the Soul suspects, The Girls, and The Move-Ons warming up the crowd.

As darkness fell the lights came on, and a series of spectacular acts followed. The Fabulous Fug Band had everybody screaming as they belted out rock classics.

The crowd got a bit carried away during The Tales of George with two more festival goers escorted to the exit after they hurled themselves at the stage.

The festival was closed by headline act, From the Jam, which featured original Jam bassist Foxton and Bognor Regis' Russell Hastings.

Inspector John Merrick, of Bognor police station, said: "The success of Rox 2010 is testament to the thorough planning and preparation by the organisers in consultation with the emergency services and local authority.

"This would not be possible without the dedication and support from all involved, including the many volunteers who give their time and effort."

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